In a decisive move to combat the surge in online fraud and high-tech crimes, the Uttar Pradesh government, led by Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath, has launched a major technological empowerment drive for its police force. This initiative aims to safeguard citizens in the digital age and strengthen public trust in online transactions and services.
Massive Training Drive and Infrastructure Expansion
Official data presented in the state Assembly reveals a significant upskilling effort. A total of 84,705 police personnel have received certified training in cyber crime investigation and prevention through a dedicated Cyber Crime Training Portal. The goal is to arm officers with modern technical skills to effectively tackle digital offences, online scams, and cyber fraud.
The government's reply in the assembly detailed a phased strengthening of the cyber crime control mechanism. Before 2017, UP had a minimal presence with only two cyber crime police stations, located in Lucknow and Gautam Buddh Nagar. The current administration undertook a systematic expansion, establishing 16 zonal cyber crime police stations on February 6, 2020. This was followed by a further decentralisation with the creation of 57 district-level cyber crime police stations on December 14, 2023.
State-Wide Network and Enhanced Public Support
Today, cyber crime police stations are operational in all districts of Uttar Pradesh, taking the total number to 75. Furthermore, every district police station in the state now has a dedicated cyber cell staffed with trained personnel, ensuring a localised response to digital crimes.
Recognising that prevention is as crucial as investigation, the government has placed a strong emphasis on public awareness. As a key pillar of its strategy, authorities have organised a staggering 65,966 cyber awareness programmes at public places. These sessions educate citizens about common online frauds and promote safe digital practices.
To improve victim support, the capacity of the national cyber crime helpline 1930 has been expanded from 20 to 50 seats. Officials confirmed that this critical service is now operational 24 hours a day, seven days a week, providing round-the-clock assistance to those targeted by cyber criminals.
Building a Digitally Resilient Uttar Pradesh
This comprehensive approach—combining large-scale police training, expansive infrastructure, relentless public education, and robust helpline support—marks a transformative shift in how Uttar Pradesh is securing its digital frontier. The moves are a direct response to the parallel rise in digital adoption and cyber criminal activity, aiming to create a safer online ecosystem for all residents and businesses in the state.
